Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site Information:
In 1902, Governor Hogg purchased land along Varner Creek from Martin Varner, a member of Stephen F. Austin’s Old Three Hundred colony who had established a sprawling plantation on the Brazos River in 1824. Though the Governor drilled several oil wells on the site, oil was not discovered on his property until 1920, 14 years after his death. In 1958, his daughter Ima Hogg donated 66 acres, including the two story Greek revival plantation house and the kitchen building, to the State of Texas. Guided tours of the 1835 house museum are available Tue-Sun, 9am, 10am, 11am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 2:30pm and 3:30pm. Reservations are not required for groups of less than 10 people. For larger groups, reservations must be made 2 weeks in advance. School tours are also available by reservation. The 1920s interpretive barn is open daily for self-guided tours. Come visit during the spring when the bluebonnets and Indian paintbrushes are in full bloom. The park has a 0.5 acre pond. Activities include birding, picnicking, and historical interpretation. Annual events include Juneteenth Reunions, the San Jacinto Festival, and a Christmas Celebration held on the first weekend in December; Christmas tours are held throughout December. This historic site is available for family reunions, weddings and other events. For more park information read the Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site Visitor Guide. Fish Stocking History

Annual San Jacinto Festival, April:
Festivities include arts and crafts, a parade, a BBQ Cook-off, a carnival, a Friday night dance, a tea at Varner Hogg Plantation, a washer tournament, horseshoes, dominos, a pageant, historical tours and skirmishes, an antique car show, helicopter rides, and the Rotary Shrimp Boil and Auction. (979) 345-3921. This event is sponsored by the West Columbia Chamber of Commerce. (979) 345-4656. The vent is located at the Varner-Hogg Plantation SHS. 1702 N. 13th Street.

Annual Harvest Festival, Oct:
Visitors learn about harvesting on an 1800s plantation, view tools and wagons used in harvesting sugar cane, taste real sugar cane, and learn how it is gathered and processed. Other activities include hayrides, cotton picking, storytelling, craft activities, viewing animals and free refreshments. An admission fee applies. This event is held at the Varner-Hogg Plantation at 1702 N. 13th Street. (979) 345-4656.

Annual "A Candlelight Christmas," A Saturday in Early Dec:
Activities include touring the decorated mansion, photos with Santa, listening to the “Texas Night Before Christmas” reading, and Christmas cookies and Wassail. This event is held at the Varner-Hogg Plantation at 1702 N. 13th Street. (979) 345-4656.